Seizing the Moment: Patients with COPD view Hospitalization as the Optimal Timing for Smoking Cessation Support

Smoking cessation is an essential part of treatment in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and hospitalization periods present a window of opportunity for delivering smoking cessation support (SCS). Our study aims to explore the experiences of patients with COPD of receiving SCS during hospitalization. Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted one week post-discharge, and qualitative content analysis was applied. Preliminary findings from five interviews highlighted the significant role of timing in patients' decisions to quit smoking. Motivation to quit was notably heightened during hospitalization, driven by the availability of nicotine patches and the realization of the health risks associated with smoking. Some patients viewed their hospitalization as a wake-up call, leading to fear of readmission or even death, thereby motivating cessation. Motivation varied, including concerns about health deterioration, costs and trust in healthcare providers. The optional nature of smoking cessation support was seen as empowering, emphasizing patient autonomy. While quitting during hospitalization was perceived as manageable, four patients maintained abstinence post-discharge, one struggled with cravings, and another resumed smoking for immediate relief. In conclusion, our study highlights the crucial role of timing in motivating patients with COPD to engage in smoking cessation. Patients endorse the integration of smoking cessation support as standard care during hospitalization, viewing it as the ideal moment to commit to quit smoking. However, larger trials are needed to assess the effect of SCS during hospitalization on sustained abstinence.